Why I Became A Breeder

My story is a pretty simple one.  But a love story none the less.  I bought my first Hedgehog from Brenda Sandavol at Heaven Sent Hedgehogs.  The children named him Max and he stole our hearts from the very beginning.  He was a little cranky but we soon figured out that it was all a façade.  What a gentle loving soul this little guy has!  Soon, I wanted another and we got our little girl Siobhan from Brenda.  As with any good breeder Brenda was there for us 24/7.  We developed more than just a breeder – buyer relationship and soon became fast friends.  As my family and myself became more and more in love with our Hedgehogs I had a desire to get involved in the community.  I joined different yahoo lists and became involved with the Colorado Hedgehog Society. 

I realized I had a growing need to share my love of these special creatures with others.  I decided that some time in the future I wanted to become a breeder but there where a few steps I needed to make first.  Brenda and I discussed this and she became my mentor.

I became a foster parent to a few of Brenda’s Hedgehogs and our Hedgehog family grew even more.  I became a member of Breeders Helping Breeders to learn from the other breeders involved in the list.  What a great resource!!  Along with the one on one with Brenda, constant interaction with other the breeders online and hands on experience with my Hedgehogs I knew this was what I wanted to do.  My passion for these animals grew to such a huge size I just had to share it with others. 

Since my breeding business is small and will stay small, getting my USDA License went smoothly.  I was a nervous wreck of course and asked everyone I knew for advice.  They were all very helpful and so was my inspector.  I passed on the first visit!

I truly glean every morsel I can from the wonderful people I have interaction with and thank them from the bottom of my heart.  My life has changes so much and I am thankful for that everyday.  I can’t imagine what life would be like with out these little guys!